Suffolk postal worker faces arrest for alleged mail theft activity
A Suffolk County postal worker is now facing serious allegations related to mail theft. Jovanni Jamison-Lewis, a 35-year-old clerk from Mastic Beach, is under investigation for allegedly stealing items from outgoing mail at the Oakdale Post Office.
Details of the Alleged Mail Theft
District Attorney Ray Tierney emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that it is unacceptable for individuals to have their holiday gifts and well wishes stolen. Jamison-Lewis, who had been employed at the post office for approximately one year, is charged with multiple offenses, including:
- Grand larceny
- Criminal possession of stolen property
- Petit larceny
- Official misconduct
On November 19, 2023, authorities allege that she took two sealed envelopes from the outgoing mail bin. Each envelope reportedly contained a greeting card along with gifts. One of the envelopes was said to include a T.J. Maxx gift card, while the other held three New York State Lottery scratch-off tickets. Jamison-Lewis supposedly opened the envelopes, removed their contents, and returned the empty greeting cards back to their respective envelopes.
Surveillance and Arrest
The envelope containing the T.J. Maxx gift card was mailed by an undercover investigator from the District Attorney’s Office. The next day, video surveillance footage allegedly captured Jamison-Lewis using the stolen gift card at a T.J. Maxx store in Port Jefferson Station.
Jamison-Lewis was arrested on November 24, 2023, after investigators discovered stolen mail hidden in her pants and pocketbook. A search of her home and vehicle revealed an additional 20 pieces of stolen mail. She resigned from her position at the post office on December 1, 2023, and was arraigned shortly thereafter.
Community Concerns
Local residents have expressed concern regarding the violation of trust associated with this incident. George Lederer, a Patchogue resident, stated that it creates anxiety about the safety of their mail. Heidi Trautwein, a long-time customer at the Oakdale Post Office, remarked on the disappointment of such a betrayal, especially after 64 years of using the service.
Ongoing Investigation
The U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General (USPS OIG) Northeast Area Field Office is continuing to probe into this matter. They encourage any witnesses or victims to come forward to assist in their investigation.
